Birthstone Meanings

Make a Statement

Each month has a stone, but don’t let your birthday limit you.
Use these legends to pick the stone that speaks to you.

January

Stone: Garnet
Meaning: Protection
Color: Dark Red

Garnets were the most popular gemstone in the later years of the Roman Empire. The gem always looks like it is emitting light, which led travelers to carry them to light up the night.

Perfect for: Travelers, late-night studiers and maybe those afraid of the dark.

February

Stone: Amethyst/Ultralite
Meaning: Wisdom
Color: Violet

Amethyst (Ultralite) is said to strengthen relationships and give its wearer courage. Ancient Greeks thought the gem would clear their heads and help with quick thinking.

Perfect for: Those dreaming of far-off cities, Jeopardy enthusiasts and old souls.

March

Stone: Aquamarine
Meaning: Serenity
Color: Blue

Aquamarine has a calming, soothing energy reminiscent of sea water and clear skies. Sailors brought aquamarine stones on voyages for calming purposes like getting a good night sleep.

Perfect for: Those who toss and turn all night, sailors and yogis.

April

Stone: White Sapphire
Meaning: Strength
Color: Clear

White sapphires have long been said to bring wisdom and strength through clarity and energy. They reveal talent and potential when the wearer is faced with difficult choices or circumstances.

Perfect for: The indecisive, those afraid of the challenges of adulting and probably weightlifters.

May

Stone: Emerald
Meaning: Hope
Color: Dark Green

The dark green of emerald hints at the renewal and revival of springtime. Legend says this was one of Cleopatra’s favorite stones.

Perfect for: Those who are happy to see the end of winter, spring cleaners and Egyptian history buffs.

June

Stone: Alexandrite
Meaning: Love
Color: Varies

The transparent yellow-green of alexandrite transforms in the sunlight, ranging from red to dark purple. This complex stone is thought to promote intuition, creativity and concentration.

Perfect for: The academics, the artists and the easily distracted.

July

Stone: Ruby
Meaning: Vitality
Color: Red

Rubies have long been associated with good health and physical strength. A regal stone, the dark red of ruby is said to promote energy and safety.

Perfect for: Future doctors, future royals and the kids you beg to put down the video games and go outside.

August

Stone: Peridot
Meaning: Beauty
Color: Olive Green

Peridot gems stay the same color in both natural and artificial light, which led ancient Egyptians to associate this gem with beauty. Because the green endures through darkness, peridot is believed to fight off nightmares and bring confidence.

Perfect for: The nightmare-prone, the highly opinionated and all who need a pep in their step.

September

Stone: Sapphire/Blue Spinel
Meaning: Truth
Color: Deep Blue

Sapphires (Blue spinel) are thought to ease pain and reduce stress. In the 17th century, the gem was popular among those searching for truth, meaning and honesty.

Perfect for: Perfectionists, the philosophers in your life and those with too many books in their backpacks.

October

Stone: Pink Sapphire
Meaning: Healing
Color: Pink

Pink sapphires are believed to bring wisdom and resilience into your life. These gems are said to assist in big life transitions as well as forgiveness, acceptance and letting go.

Perfect for: Nervous grads, the highly compassionate and, honestly, Hufflepuffs.

November

Stone: Golden Sapphire
Meaning: Joy
Color: Dark Yellow

Golden sapphires inspire action — joyfully turning ideas and goals into reality. They are said to promote movement in exciting new directions.

Perfect for: The adventurers, the dreamers and maybe those afraid of change.

December

Stone: Blue Zircon
Meaning: Potential
Color: Blue

Blue zircon is associated with new potential leading to greater happiness. These gems are also believed to help you understand your feelings and turn your wishes into reality.

Perfect for: Those looking for a magic genie, those in touch with their emotions and those who color-code their planners.

Now that you know what each stone means, it’s time to design your class ring!

START DESIGNING A CLASS RING

Herff Jones offers simulated birthstones and premium stones.